Recessed, valance, soffit, and cove. Maybe you have heard these terms in reference to different lighting options, but what exactly do they mean, and how do they differ?
One thing these different lighting types have in common is that they all typically fall under the category of architectural lighting. Architectural lighting is a term used to describe efficient, functional, and aesthetically pleasing lighting that does not fight with the architecture of the building, but rather compliments it. Generally, lighting that falls under this category will be sleek and out of sight.
But, how do these lighting options differ, and how can you know which will work best for you? The team here at The Copper Connection is here to help break these terms down for you, so that you can make an informed decision.
Cove
Cove lighting is built into a ledge or recess and directs light upwards. This kind of light is generally an excellent choice if you are simply wanting to add a bit of ambiance to an area or a room. You will most often see this type of lighting highlighting the outer edges of a ceiling or wall.
Soffit
The opposite of cove, soffit lighting is built into the architecture and directs light downwards. This lighting is a great option for under cabinets and you will often find it used in this way. However, the downcast from this light can provide you with a beautifully dramatic effect if you use it to highlight textures like stucco and wood.
Valance
Valance lighting casts light both upwards and downwards. Naturally, this type of lighting looks excellent running along the length of a wall. Because it provides light in both directions, it can elegantly illuminate a living room or bedroom.
Recessed
Also known as can lights, recessed lighting is built into the ceiling, leaving only a bit of trim visible. These lights offer a bright, crisp light capable of illuminating the entire area it is placed in. Can lights can be very versatile and in turn are a great option for any room.
Lighting is a powerful tool that can transform a room. Whether you need to add functionality or atmosphere or both, there is a lighting option out there for you. If you need someone to install the lighting design you had in mind, The Copper Connection is ready to help! We provide electrical services for both commercial and residential buildings. So, regardless of your situation, you can call on us.
By The Copper Connection 10-24-2019
During winter, many people enjoy a few extra lights on their home due to the shorter hours of sunlight. Whether you want to put in a couple more lights on your sidewalk or add some wrap around lights toyour porch, it can add a personal touch to your home during the cold and dark months of the year. If you have done this in the past you may have even experienced the confusion that comes from that lighting display suddenly going out. The team here at The Copper Connection can understand how frustrating that can be, so we want to help you discover how you can eliminate this common problem for good.
In order to fix an issue, first you need to diagnose what that issue is. In the case of the disappearing power, the answer is clear. An overloaded circuit. Having a stressed circuit cut out on you can be frustrating for more reasons than one. Often times, when a circuit is overloaded, it affects more than just the lights outside. Whatever is connected to the same circuit will be affected as well. Your refrigerator might go out, or your first floors lights may go AWOL, leaving you in the dark. So, what can you do?
First of all, if your system is installed properly, there is no need to worry that an overload on your circuit puts you at risk of having your house burn down. There are several standard failsafe items in place to prevent this from happening. For example, an “overcurrent protective device” at the main panel is equipped to switch off automatically before any damage is done. This will come in the form of a circuit breaker tripping or a blown fuse in the case of an older home.
The power you have access to is limited by the capacity of your main electrical panel. The panel’s job is to safely distribute power to the different circuits running throughout your house. Plug in more things than any given circuit can manage, and that’s when it will unexpectedly switch off. In order to prevent this from happening, you could be mindful of the things you have plugged into all your circuits. Things like heaters tend to draw a lot of power and many people rely on them for extra warmth during the winter. When using demanding devices such as heaters, try to unplug other things that you are not currently using so you can ease the stress on the circuit.
The ultimate answer for your power problem, however, is going to be adding more power. The Copper Connection is highly skilled in panel upgrades. You can let us know the scale of your lighting display, and we can appropriately assess how much added power you will need. With a permanent solution in the form of a panel upgrade, you will never have the power from your lighting display compete with what is needed inside your home again. Be sure to call us today so you can be prepared to light up the block this winter!
By The Copper Connection 10-1-2019